Steps to avoid freezing pipes

By Chris BishopStaff writer

Tuesday

Jan 29, 2013 at 12:01 AM

The cold grip on the region will ease this week with milder weather. Temperatures will reach the mid-60s by Wednesday, the National Weather Service reported Monday, but by the weekend the cold will return, with highs only in the mid-30s.

Despite the swings in temperature, the winter season is in full swing, and Burlington County homeowners should take steps to avoid pipes from freezing, experts agree.

A South Jersey heating and air-conditioning company is offering advice to avoid the difficulties that can result from frozen and broken pipes.

Tom Hutchinson, president of Hutchinson Plumbing Heating Cooling in Cherry Hill, said some homeowners ignore the situation until itís too late.

Every homeowner should know the three main reasons why pipes freeze: quick drops in temperature, poor insulation and thermostats set too low.

Hutchinson offered the following precautions:

Insulate pipes in the homeís crawl space and attic; Heat tape or thermostatically controlled heat cables can be used to wrap pipes; Keep the cold out by sealing leaks that let cold air in where pipes are located; Shut off and drain water from pipes leading to outside faucets; Trickle water. Hot or cold water helps keep pipes from freezing; Set the thermostat. The rule of thumb is: 55 degrees or higher when leaving for an extended period of time; Open cabinets. Allow heat to get to un-insulated pipes.

Chris Bishop: 609-871-8140;

email: cbishop@phillyBurbs.com;

Twitter: @chrisleebishop. To subscribe,

go to phillyBurbs.com/orderBCT

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